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Formula 1 fans across the globe are eagerly looking forward to what promises to be yet another magnificent spectacle at the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve next weekend. However, there have been growing concerns about whether or not this year's Canadian GP would actually take place due to a series of destructive forest fires that have plagued Canada for weeks. The fires which started on June 4th, and continue burning today cover an area of more than one million hectares – bigger than Belgium or New Jersey – according to officials from Quebec’s Ministry of Forests.
Over 150 separate fires were initially reported but by last week only a handful remained active. They still presented major challenges for firefighters who had struggled with dry conditions and windy weather along with logistical issues caused by pandemic restrictions on cross-border travel into Canada from some US states sending fire crews.
Air quality has improved steadily since Tuesday when Montreal recorded its worst air quality levels since May after smoke from wildfires drifting down from Northern Ontario combined with emissions closer home due to high humidity levels resulting in poor air quality index readings all around town including Ile Bizard which sits close enough circuit Gilles Villeneuve making difficult breath without face mask.
However, forecasts indicate changes in wind direction expected over the coming days should hopefully help clear up Air Quality Index (AQI) numbers just below acceptable limits again before race day beckoning crowds descend upon Montreal.
The Emilia Romagna Grand Prix, which was scheduled to take place at the Autodromo Enzo e Dino Ferrari earlier this year, had been cancelled due to heavy flooding in and around the track.
The Canadian GP is a crucial part of F1's calendar as it marks one of only fourth races set in North American time zones.
In conclusion, despite initial concerns raised by environmental factors threatening Montreal’s air quality resulting from forest fires currently plaguing Canada, the 2023 Canadian Grand Prix will certainly go on as planned next week without fear or danger posed by these flames though organizers remain ready to respond accordingly if the situation changes last minute just like they did cancel out Imola race earlier season due extreme weather conditions surrounding area making impossible hold event safely.
